Faculty of Physics and Astronomy :
Experimental Physics V - Spectroscopy of Atoms and Molecules by Laser Methods

In order to fill a fixed-term position in part-time (29.8725 hours/week = 75%) at the earliest possible date, we are looking for 1

PhD researcher (m/f/x) for laser-based diagnostics of electric fields and atomic and molecular species in atmospheric pressure plasmas

The chair for Experimental Physics V - Spectroscopy of Atoms and Molecules by Laser Methods at the Faculty of Physics and Astronomy, Ruhr University Bochum, investigates physicochemical processes in low and atmospheric pressure plasmas. The research is focused on the development and application of advanced laser-based diagnostics from UV to terahertz (THz) to characterize plasmas and their interaction with surfaces, and on highly sensitive laser-based diagnostics using novel lasers in the mid- and far-infrared, including cavity-enhanced spectroscopy, frequency comb spectroscopy, and THz absorption spectroscopy. The research covers the entire spectrum from basic research to applied research and research with industrial partners and includes strong collaborations on plasma modelling. Candidates joining our team will contribute to innovative research at the forefront of plasma physics and chemistry as well as laser spectroscopy.

We are looking for a highly motivated doctoral candidate for the project “Highly sensitive measurements of electric fields with electric field induced second harmonic generation (E-FISH), and key atomic and molecular species with THz absorption spectroscopy and cavity-enhanced spectroscopy techniques” funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG) in the framework of the Collaborative Research Centre (CRC) 1316 “Transient Atmospheric Plasmas – from Plasmas to Liquids to Solids” focusing on plasma catalysis (https://sfb1316.rub.de/index.php/en/). The ideal candidate (m/f/x) will work with us on the development and application of laser-based diagnostics to various types of plasma sources and applications within the CRC to unravel the plasma physics and chemistry on topics as diverse as plasma electrolysis, conversion of volatile organic compounds, and biocatalysis.

Scope:

part-time

Duration:

fixed-term, 3 years

Start:

at the earliest possible date

Apply by:

2026-03-31

Your tasks:

• Develop and apply THz absorption spectroscopy and cavity-enhanced spectroscopy setups to measure atomic (O, Al) and molecular species (NO) and apply the existing E-FISH setup to measure electric fields in atmospheric pressure plasmas related to plasma catalysis
• To elucidate relevant plasma-chemical processes and to identify key species in the plasma
• Determine spectroscopic parameters of plasma-relevant species
• Support the modelling tasks of the plasmas under investigation
• Documentation and presentation of experimental results, including preparation of reports, publications, and contributions to group meetings and at national and international conferences.
• Involvement in national and international collaborations, research as well as industry

Your profile:

• Master of Science (MSc) degree in physics, chemistry or related field
• Good knowledge of plasma physics or laser spectroscopy would be an asset
• Experimental experience with laser absorption spectroscopy would be an advantage
• Knowledge of programming languages and analysis software (Matlab, Python, Origin, etc.) would be an advantage.
• Highly motivated and with the drive to advance scientific research in the field of plasma diagnostics and plasma chemistry
• A structured and independent approach to work with good communication and organisational skills
• High degree of commitment and dedication, flexibility, reliability, ability to work in a team, high performance orientation and problem-solving competence
• Good command of English (written and spoken); German is helpful but not required

We offer:

• Employment at one of the largest universities in Germany within the University Alliance Ruhr
• Challenging and varied tasks with a high degree of responsibility and independence
• The opportunity to make an innovative contribution
• Structured supervision and extensive training and further education opportunities
• Experienced and professional support
• Team-oriented work in a dedicated, international, respectful and appreciative team
• Networking opportunities at national and international conferences and in cooperation with national and international research and industry partners
• Flexible and family-friendly working hours
• A job in the heart of the lively Ruhr metropolitan region with its diverse cultural offerings

Further information:

The position is salaried and based on the collective agreement of the Länder (TV-L). If the personal and collective agreement requirements are met, the employee will receive pay grade E13 TV-L.

Further information can be found at https://oeffentlicher-dienst.info/ (in German).

The place of work is Ruhr University Bochum.

If the position is funded by third-party funds the employee has no teaching obligation.

RUB sees itself as a university with an international presence. The campus languages are German and English. Competence in at least one of the two languages and the willingness to learn the other are a prerequisite. RUB provides corresponding free courses for employees.

German language courses are offered by the University Language Center (ZFA) in the field of German as a Foreign Language (DaF). https://www.daf.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/sbgk/index.html.en

The Staff Council has the right to participate in all selection interviews. At the request of a candidate (m/f/x), it will ensure its participation in the entire procedure. Please contact wpr@rub.de.

The Ruhr-Universität Bochum is one of Germany’s leading research universities, addressing the whole range of academic disciplines. A highly dynamic setting enables researchers and students to work across the traditional boundaries of academic subjects and faculties. To create knowledge networks within and beyond the university is Ruhr-Universität Bochum’s declared aim.

The Ruhr-Universität Bochum stands for diversity and equal opportunities. For this reason, we favour a working environment composed of heterogeneous teams, and seek to promote the careers of individuals who are underrepresented in our respective professional areas. The Ruhr-Universität Bochum expressly requests job applications from women. In areas in which they are underrepresented they will be given preference in the case of equivalent qualifications with male candidates. Applications from individuals with disabilities are most welcome.

Contact persons for further information:

Prof. Dr. Jean-Pierre van Helden Tel.: +49 234 32 26879

Travel costs, accommodation costs and loss of earnings or other application costs for job interviews can unfortunately not be reimbursed.

We look forward to receiving your application via our online application portal by 2026-03-31. Please make sure to mention the reference number ANR 5489.